Introduction
Donny Osmond Moves Drew to Tears, Reflects on the “Dark Years” of His Life
In a deeply emotional conversation with Drew Barrymore, singer and entertainer Donny Osmond opened up about the most difficult decade of his life, leaving both the host and audience visibly moved.
The Dark Years: 1979–1989
Donny candidly referred to the years from 1979 to 1989 as the “dark years” of his professional life. After marrying Debbie in 1978—the woman he calls “the love of my life” and “the one who saved me”—Donny experienced a painful backlash from his fans. Once seen as a teen heartthrob, he suddenly faced fan rejection, including literal record-burning parties and hate mail directed at his wife, a sweet girl from Billings, Montana.
His career collapsed: his Broadway debut Little Johnny Jones closed on opening night, and he couldn’t land a recording deal. “I couldn’t even get arrested,” he joked grimly. “Everything was gone.”
But through the personal darkness, there was a light—his family. “Debbie pulled me out of it,” he said. “Every major decision I make starts with, ‘How will this affect my wife? My kids? My grandkids?’ And only then do I think about myself.”
A Lesson in Balance
Donny emphasized the importance of maintaining balance between fame and real life. He recounted how simple routines—like mowing the lawn or taking out the trash—help him stay grounded. “If I depended on applause to feel whole, my lows would be devastating,” he said.
He also reflected on his friendship with Michael Jackson, recalling their last conversation when Michael confided, “I just need some normalcy in my life.” Donny invited him to visit and let their children play together in privacy, but the visit never happened.
A Triumphant Return
Now, at 65, Donny is still full of passion and energy. With the release of his 65th album, Start Again, and a new Las Vegas show, he continues to reinvent himself. The show features a unique interactive segment where audience members choose songs from any of his albums—spanning six decades—for him to perform live on the spot.
A Message of Resilience
“Sometimes we feel sorry for ourselves—‘Why, God, why?’ But the key is: play the cards you’re dealt,” Donny shared. “Do something with your life instead of dwelling on the pain.”
Donny Osmond is not only a gifted performer but also a powerful example of resilience, love, and perseverance—a living proof that light can always follow the darkest times.